A Black History Month book guide for kids

1 of 30

Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison

$10.73

Little Leaders illuminates the lives of 40 trailblazing black women who helped shape American history. Complete with stunning illustrations by Harrison, this book is meant to educate young readers and inspire bold actions.

Maya Angelou's brave, defiant poem celebrates the courage within each of us, young and old. Angelou's strong words are matched by the daring vision of artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, whose childlike style reveals the powerful emotions and fanciful imaginings of childhood. Together, Angelou's words and Basquiat's paintings create a place where every child, indeed every person, may experience his or her own fearlessness.

Celebrating its successful 25 years in print, this brilliant introduction to poetry and contemporary art is ideal for readers 4 and up.

Bedtime Inspirational Stories: 50 Amazing Black People Who Changed the World by L. A. Amber

$26.99

This bookhighlights the achievements and stories of 50 notable women and men from the 18th century to today. Some were born slaves, some grew up in poverty, and some had physical or emotional challenges. Some were born many years ago, and some are still with us. The stories in the book include those of political activists, scientists, artists, musicians, inventors, business people, Nobel prize winners, and more.

Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly

$12.75

Based on the New York Times bestselling book and the Academy Award–nominated movie, author Margot Lee Shetterly and illustrator Laura Freeman bring to picturebook readers the incredibly inspiring true story of Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden who helped NASA launch men into space!

This is a gorgeous, lyrical ode to loving who you are, respecting others, and being kind to one another. The concluding message of "We are all here for a purpose. We are more than enough. We just need to believe it," is one that will inspire self-confidence in any young reader.

This book is a high-spirited, engaging salute to the beautiful, raw, assured humanity of black boys and how they see themselves when they approve of their reflections in the mirror. It was named one of the best books of 2017 by NPR, Kirkus Reviews, the Los Angeles Times, the Boston Globe, Chicago Public Library, and more.

As slaves relentlessly toiled in an unjust system in 19th century Louisiana, they all counted the days until Sunday, when at least for half a day they were briefly able to congregate in Congo Square in New Orleans. Here they were free to set up an open market, sing, dance, and play music. They were free to forget their cares, their struggles, and their oppression.

Chosen as a New York Times Best Illustrated Book of 2016, this poetic, nonfiction story about a little-known piece of African American history captures a human's capacity to find hope and joy in difficult circumstances and demonstrates how New Orleans' Congo Square was truly freedom's heart.

Amid the scholars, poets, authors, and artists of the Harlem Renaissance stood an Afro–Puerto Rican named Arturo Schomburg. This law clerk’s life’s passion was to collect books, letters, music, and art from Africa and the African diaspora and bring to light the achievements of people of African descent through the ages. When Schomburg’s collection became so big it began to overflow his house (and his wife threatened to mutiny), he turned to the New York Public Library, where he created and curated a collection that was the cornerstone of a new Negro Division. A century later, his groundbreaking collection, known as the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, has become a beacon to scholars all over the world.

Between the Lines: How Ernie Barnes Went from the Football Field to the Art Gallery by Sandra Neil Wallace

$10.99

Discover the remarkable true story of NFL star Ernie Barnes—a boy who followed his dreams and became one of the most influential artists of his generation—with this beautiful and fascinating nonfiction picture book illustrated by four-time Caldecott Honor recipient Bryan Collier.

In her debut picture book, Misty Copeland tells the story of a young girl--an every girl--whose confidence is fragile and who is questioning her own ability to reach the heights that Misty has reached. Misty encourages this young girl's faith in herself and shows her exactly how, through hard work and dedication, she too can become Firebird.

Do you know you can beWhat you want to beIf you try to beWhat you can be?

This lyrical, empowering poem celebrates black children and seeks to inspire all young people to dream big and achieve their goals. Brought to life by the illustrations of Bryan Collier, this book is ideal for readers 5 to 7 years.

Effa always loved baseball. As a young woman, she would go to Yankee Stadium just to see Babe Ruth’s mighty swing. But she never dreamed she would someday own a baseball team. Or be the first—and only—woman ever inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Noted poet Ntozake Shange recalls her childhood home and the close-knit group of innovators that often gathered there. These men of vision, brought to life in the majestic paintings of artist Kadir Nelson, lived at a time when the color of their skin dictated where they could live, what schools they could attend, and even where they could sit on a bus or in a movie theater.

Yet in the face of this tremendous adversity, these dedicated souls and others like them not only demonstrated the importance of Black culture in America, but also helped usher in a movement that "changed the world."

Hip Hop Speaks to Children: A Celebration of Poetry with a Beat by Nikki Giovanni

$13.45

The poetry is enough. The illustrations are enough. The CD is enough. Together, this book is a treasure of which you cannot get enough. Hip Hop Speaks to Children is a celebration of poetry with a beat and so much more. The book has been edited by renowned poet Nikki Giovanni, who also is featured on the included CD.

This book celebrates the work of young and old. Read over 50 remarkable poems. Listen to more than 30 performances from poets such as Queen Latifah to Gwendolyn Brooks, Langston Hughes to A Tribe Called Quest. And discover both the classic work of Gwendolyn Brooks's wake-up call "We Real Cool" and the lovely work of Kanye West's "Hey Mama," and more.

Melba Doretta Liston loved the sounds of music from as far back as she could remember. As a child, Melba fell in love with a big, shiny trombone and soon taught herself to play the instrument.

By the time she was a teenager, Melba s extraordinary gift for music led her to the world of jazz. She joined a band led by trumpet player Gerald Wilson and toured the country. Overcoming obstacles of race and gender, Melba went on to become a famed trombone player.

A great classroom and bedtime read-aloud, Mae Among the Stars is the perfect book for young readers who have big dreams and even bigger hearts! Inspired by the life of the first African American woman to travel in space, Mae Jemison, this book is ideal for readers 4 to 8 years old.

There is nothing more important to a child than to feel loved, and this gorgeous gathering of poems written by Nikki Giovanni celebrates exactly that. Hand-selected by Newbery honoree Ashley Bryan, he has, with his masterful flourish of color, shape, and movement, added a visual layering that drums the most impartant message of all to young, old, parent, child, grandparent, and friend alike: You are loved. You are loved. You are loved. As a bonus, one page is mirrored, so children reading the book can see exactly who is loved—themselves!

If you haven't heard of Marley Dias, don't worry you will. At age 11, this little powerhouse founded #1000blackgirlbooks to collect and donate books that feature a black girl as the main character. Thanks to her support system, social media, and her own tenacity Dias accomplished her goal and has gone on to achieve much success, including Forbes List. So it's only right that this literary advocate write a book of her own. Marley Dias Gets It Done: And So Can You! shows kids how they can use their strengths to make a positive impact on their community in the technology era. Exploring topics that range from literacy, diversity, social justice, equity and inclusion, Marley proves that your age doesn't limit your mind and possibilities.

You know the Super Soaker. It’s one of top 20 toys of all time. And it was invented entirely by accident. Trying to create a new cooling system for refrigerators and air conditioners, impressive inventor Lonnie Johnson instead created the mechanics for the iconic toy.

A love for rockets, robots, inventions, and a mind for creativity began early in Lonnie Johnson’s life. Growing up in a house full of brothers and sisters, persistence and a passion for problem solving became the cornerstone for a career as an engineer and his work with NASA. But it is his invention of the Super Soaker water gun that has made his most memorable splash with kids and adults.

Celebrate different hair shapes, textures, and styles in this self-affirming picture book! From dreadlocks to blowouts to braids, Princess Hair shines a spotlight on the beauty and diversity of black hair, showing young readers that every kind of hair is princess hair.

Jean-Michel Basquiat and his unique, collage-style paintings rocketed to fame in the 1980s as a cultural phenomenon unlike anything the art world had ever seen. But before that, he was a little boy who saw art everywhere: in poetry books and museums, in games and in the words that we speak, and in the pulsing energy of New York City. This book will introduce young readers to the powerful message that art doesn't always have to be neat or clean--and definitely not inside the lines--to be beautiful.

This jazz-inspired reinvention of The Nutcracker is a worthy tribute to the dreamlike wonder and magic of the Christmas season. Set in New York City during the height of the Harlem Renaissance, one little girl finds her voice as a musician thanks to her enchanting adventures with a magical toy.

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist by Cynthia Levinson

$12.75

Meet the youngest known child to be arrested for a civil rights protest in Birmingham, Alabama, 1963, in this moving picture book that proves you’re never too little to make a difference.

Nine-year-old Audrey Faye Hendricks intended to go places and do things like anybody else. Audrey Faye Hendricks was confident and bold and brave as can be, and hers is the remarkable and inspiring story of one child’s role in the Civil Rights Movement.

Tiny Stitches: The Life of Medical Pioneer Vivien Thomas by Gwendolyn Hooks

$14.15

Vivien Thomas's greatest dream was to attend college to study medicine. But after the stock market crashed in 1929, he lost all his savings. Vivien knew that the Vanderbilt University would never admit him as a student, but he hoped working there would get him closer to his dream.

As Dr. Blalock's research assistant, Vivien developed a procedure that was used for the first successful open-heart surgery on a child. But Vivien's name did not appear on the report.

Hailing from the Tremé neighborhood in New Orleans, Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews got his nickname by wielding a trombone twice as long as he was high. A prodigy, he was leading his own band by age six, and today this Grammy-nominated artist headlines the legendary New Orleans Jazz Fest.

Along with esteemed illustrator Bryan Collier, Andrews has created a lively picture book autobiography about how he followed his dream of becoming a musician, despite the odds, until he reached international stardom. Trombone Shorty is a celebration of the rich cultural history of New Orleans and the power of music.

Did you know that James West invented the microphone in your cell phone? That Fred Jones invented the refrigerated truck that makes supermarkets possible? Or that Dr. Percy Julian synthesized cortisone from soy, easing untold people’s pain? These are just some of the black inventors and innovators scoring big points in this dynamic look at several unsung heroes who shared a desire to improve people’s lives.

Offering profiles with fast facts on flaps and framed by a funny contemporary story featuring two feisty twins, here is a nod to the minds behind the gamma electric cell and the ice-cream scoop, improvements to traffic lights, open-heart surgery, and more — inventors whose ingenuity and perseverance against great odds made our world safer, better, and brighter.

When the Beat Was Born: DJ Kool Herc and the Creation of Hip Hop by Laban Carrick Hill

$10.98

Before there was hip hop, there was DJ Kool Herc.

From his childhood in Jamaica to his youth in the Bronx, Laban Carrick Hill's book tells how Kool Herc came to be a DJ, how kids in gangs stopped fighting in order to breakdance, and how the music he invented went on to define a culture and transform the world.

Presented as a thoughtful, poetic exchange between two characters -- who don't realize they are thinking and asking the very same questions -- this beautiful celebration of our humanity and diversity invites readers of all ages to imagine a world where there is no you or me, only we.

If the first step toward healing the world is to build bridges of empathy and celebrate rather than discriminate, Why Am I Me? helps foster a much-needed sense of connection, compassion, and love.

Meet 52 icons of color from the past and present in this celebration of inspirational achievement - from figureheads, leaders and pioneers such as Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela and Rosa Parks, to cultural trailblazers and sporting heroes, including Stevie Wonder, Oprah Winfrey and Serena Williams. Strong, courageous, talented and diverse, these extraordinary men and women's achievements will inspire a new generation to chase their dream … whatever it may be.

Little Leaders illuminates the lives of 40 trailblazing black women who helped shape American history. Complete with stunning illustrations by Harrison, this book is meant to educate young readers and inspire bold actions.

Maya Angelou's brave, defiant poem celebrates the courage within each of us, young and old. Angelou's strong words are matched by the daring vision of artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, whose childlike style reveals the powerful emotions and fanciful imaginings of childhood. Together, Angelou's words and Basquiat's paintings create a place where every child, indeed every person, may experience his or her own fearlessness.

Celebrating its successful 25 years in print, this brilliant introduction to poetry and contemporary art is ideal for readers 4 and up.

Bedtime Inspirational Stories: 50 Amazing Black People Who Changed the World by L. A. Amber

$26.99

This bookhighlights the achievements and stories of 50 notable women and men from the 18th century to today. Some were born slaves, some grew up in poverty, and some had physical or emotional challenges. Some were born many years ago, and some are still with us. The stories in the book include those of political activists, scientists, artists, musicians, inventors, business people, Nobel prize winners, and more.

Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly

$12.75

Based on the New York Times bestselling book and the Academy Award–nominated movie, author Margot Lee Shetterly and illustrator Laura Freeman bring to picturebook readers the incredibly inspiring true story of Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden who helped NASA launch men into space!

This is a gorgeous, lyrical ode to loving who you are, respecting others, and being kind to one another. The concluding message of "We are all here for a purpose. We are more than enough. We just need to believe it," is one that will inspire self-confidence in any young reader.

This book is a high-spirited, engaging salute to the beautiful, raw, assured humanity of black boys and how they see themselves when they approve of their reflections in the mirror. It was named one of the best books of 2017 by NPR, Kirkus Reviews, the Los Angeles Times, the Boston Globe, Chicago Public Library, and more.

As slaves relentlessly toiled in an unjust system in 19th century Louisiana, they all counted the days until Sunday, when at least for half a day they were briefly able to congregate in Congo Square in New Orleans. Here they were free to set up an open market, sing, dance, and play music. They were free to forget their cares, their struggles, and their oppression.

Chosen as a New York Times Best Illustrated Book of 2016, this poetic, nonfiction story about a little-known piece of African American history captures a human's capacity to find hope and joy in difficult circumstances and demonstrates how New Orleans' Congo Square was truly freedom's heart.

Amid the scholars, poets, authors, and artists of the Harlem Renaissance stood an Afro–Puerto Rican named Arturo Schomburg. This law clerk’s life’s passion was to collect books, letters, music, and art from Africa and the African diaspora and bring to light the achievements of people of African descent through the ages. When Schomburg’s collection became so big it began to overflow his house (and his wife threatened to mutiny), he turned to the New York Public Library, where he created and curated a collection that was the cornerstone of a new Negro Division. A century later, his groundbreaking collection, known as the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, has become a beacon to scholars all over the world.

Between the Lines: How Ernie Barnes Went from the Football Field to the Art Gallery by Sandra Neil Wallace

$10.99

Discover the remarkable true story of NFL star Ernie Barnes—a boy who followed his dreams and became one of the most influential artists of his generation—with this beautiful and fascinating nonfiction picture book illustrated by four-time Caldecott Honor recipient Bryan Collier.

In her debut picture book, Misty Copeland tells the story of a young girl--an every girl--whose confidence is fragile and who is questioning her own ability to reach the heights that Misty has reached. Misty encourages this young girl's faith in herself and shows her exactly how, through hard work and dedication, she too can become Firebird.

Do you know you can beWhat you want to beIf you try to beWhat you can be?

This lyrical, empowering poem celebrates black children and seeks to inspire all young people to dream big and achieve their goals. Brought to life by the illustrations of Bryan Collier, this book is ideal for readers 5 to 7 years.

Effa always loved baseball. As a young woman, she would go to Yankee Stadium just to see Babe Ruth’s mighty swing. But she never dreamed she would someday own a baseball team. Or be the first—and only—woman ever inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Noted poet Ntozake Shange recalls her childhood home and the close-knit group of innovators that often gathered there. These men of vision, brought to life in the majestic paintings of artist Kadir Nelson, lived at a time when the color of their skin dictated where they could live, what schools they could attend, and even where they could sit on a bus or in a movie theater.

Yet in the face of this tremendous adversity, these dedicated souls and others like them not only demonstrated the importance of Black culture in America, but also helped usher in a movement that "changed the world."

Hip Hop Speaks to Children: A Celebration of Poetry with a Beat by Nikki Giovanni

$13.45

The poetry is enough. The illustrations are enough. The CD is enough. Together, this book is a treasure of which you cannot get enough. Hip Hop Speaks to Children is a celebration of poetry with a beat and so much more. The book has been edited by renowned poet Nikki Giovanni, who also is featured on the included CD.

This book celebrates the work of young and old. Read over 50 remarkable poems. Listen to more than 30 performances from poets such as Queen Latifah to Gwendolyn Brooks, Langston Hughes to A Tribe Called Quest. And discover both the classic work of Gwendolyn Brooks's wake-up call "We Real Cool" and the lovely work of Kanye West's "Hey Mama," and more.

Melba Doretta Liston loved the sounds of music from as far back as she could remember. As a child, Melba fell in love with a big, shiny trombone and soon taught herself to play the instrument.

By the time she was a teenager, Melba s extraordinary gift for music led her to the world of jazz. She joined a band led by trumpet player Gerald Wilson and toured the country. Overcoming obstacles of race and gender, Melba went on to become a famed trombone player.

A great classroom and bedtime read-aloud, Mae Among the Stars is the perfect book for young readers who have big dreams and even bigger hearts! Inspired by the life of the first African American woman to travel in space, Mae Jemison, this book is ideal for readers 4 to 8 years old.

There is nothing more important to a child than to feel loved, and this gorgeous gathering of poems written by Nikki Giovanni celebrates exactly that. Hand-selected by Newbery honoree Ashley Bryan, he has, with his masterful flourish of color, shape, and movement, added a visual layering that drums the most impartant message of all to young, old, parent, child, grandparent, and friend alike: You are loved. You are loved. You are loved. As a bonus, one page is mirrored, so children reading the book can see exactly who is loved—themselves!

If you haven't heard of Marley Dias, don't worry you will. At age 11, this little powerhouse founded #1000blackgirlbooks to collect and donate books that feature a black girl as the main character. Thanks to her support system, social media, and her own tenacity Dias accomplished her goal and has gone on to achieve much success, including Forbes List. So it's only right that this literary advocate write a book of her own. Marley Dias Gets It Done: And So Can You! shows kids how they can use their strengths to make a positive impact on their community in the technology era. Exploring topics that range from literacy, diversity, social justice, equity and inclusion, Marley proves that your age doesn't limit your mind and possibilities.

You know the Super Soaker. It’s one of top 20 toys of all time. And it was invented entirely by accident. Trying to create a new cooling system for refrigerators and air conditioners, impressive inventor Lonnie Johnson instead created the mechanics for the iconic toy.

A love for rockets, robots, inventions, and a mind for creativity began early in Lonnie Johnson’s life. Growing up in a house full of brothers and sisters, persistence and a passion for problem solving became the cornerstone for a career as an engineer and his work with NASA. But it is his invention of the Super Soaker water gun that has made his most memorable splash with kids and adults.

Celebrate different hair shapes, textures, and styles in this self-affirming picture book! From dreadlocks to blowouts to braids, Princess Hair shines a spotlight on the beauty and diversity of black hair, showing young readers that every kind of hair is princess hair.

Jean-Michel Basquiat and his unique, collage-style paintings rocketed to fame in the 1980s as a cultural phenomenon unlike anything the art world had ever seen. But before that, he was a little boy who saw art everywhere: in poetry books and museums, in games and in the words that we speak, and in the pulsing energy of New York City. This book will introduce young readers to the powerful message that art doesn't always have to be neat or clean--and definitely not inside the lines--to be beautiful.

This jazz-inspired reinvention of The Nutcracker is a worthy tribute to the dreamlike wonder and magic of the Christmas season. Set in New York City during the height of the Harlem Renaissance, one little girl finds her voice as a musician thanks to her enchanting adventures with a magical toy.

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist by Cynthia Levinson

$12.75

Meet the youngest known child to be arrested for a civil rights protest in Birmingham, Alabama, 1963, in this moving picture book that proves you’re never too little to make a difference.

Nine-year-old Audrey Faye Hendricks intended to go places and do things like anybody else. Audrey Faye Hendricks was confident and bold and brave as can be, and hers is the remarkable and inspiring story of one child’s role in the Civil Rights Movement.

Tiny Stitches: The Life of Medical Pioneer Vivien Thomas by Gwendolyn Hooks

$14.15

Vivien Thomas's greatest dream was to attend college to study medicine. But after the stock market crashed in 1929, he lost all his savings. Vivien knew that the Vanderbilt University would never admit him as a student, but he hoped working there would get him closer to his dream.

As Dr. Blalock's research assistant, Vivien developed a procedure that was used for the first successful open-heart surgery on a child. But Vivien's name did not appear on the report.

Hailing from the Tremé neighborhood in New Orleans, Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews got his nickname by wielding a trombone twice as long as he was high. A prodigy, he was leading his own band by age six, and today this Grammy-nominated artist headlines the legendary New Orleans Jazz Fest.

Along with esteemed illustrator Bryan Collier, Andrews has created a lively picture book autobiography about how he followed his dream of becoming a musician, despite the odds, until he reached international stardom. Trombone Shorty is a celebration of the rich cultural history of New Orleans and the power of music.

Did you know that James West invented the microphone in your cell phone? That Fred Jones invented the refrigerated truck that makes supermarkets possible? Or that Dr. Percy Julian synthesized cortisone from soy, easing untold people’s pain? These are just some of the black inventors and innovators scoring big points in this dynamic look at several unsung heroes who shared a desire to improve people’s lives.

Offering profiles with fast facts on flaps and framed by a funny contemporary story featuring two feisty twins, here is a nod to the minds behind the gamma electric cell and the ice-cream scoop, improvements to traffic lights, open-heart surgery, and more — inventors whose ingenuity and perseverance against great odds made our world safer, better, and brighter.

When the Beat Was Born: DJ Kool Herc and the Creation of Hip Hop by Laban Carrick Hill

$10.98

Before there was hip hop, there was DJ Kool Herc.

From his childhood in Jamaica to his youth in the Bronx, Laban Carrick Hill's book tells how Kool Herc came to be a DJ, how kids in gangs stopped fighting in order to breakdance, and how the music he invented went on to define a culture and transform the world.

Presented as a thoughtful, poetic exchange between two characters -- who don't realize they are thinking and asking the very same questions -- this beautiful celebration of our humanity and diversity invites readers of all ages to imagine a world where there is no you or me, only we.

If the first step toward healing the world is to build bridges of empathy and celebrate rather than discriminate, Why Am I Me? helps foster a much-needed sense of connection, compassion, and love.

Meet 52 icons of color from the past and present in this celebration of inspirational achievement - from figureheads, leaders and pioneers such as Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela and Rosa Parks, to cultural trailblazers and sporting heroes, including Stevie Wonder, Oprah Winfrey and Serena Williams. Strong, courageous, talented and diverse, these extraordinary men and women's achievements will inspire a new generation to chase their dream … whatever it may be.

Little Leaders illuminates the lives of 40 trailblazing black women who helped shape American history. Complete with stunning illustrations by Harrison, this book is meant to educate young readers and inspire bold actions.

Maya Angelou's brave, defiant poem celebrates the courage within each of us, young and old. Angelou's strong words are matched by the daring vision of artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, whose childlike style reveals the powerful emotions and fanciful imaginings of childhood. Together, Angelou's words and Basquiat's paintings create a place where every child, indeed every person, may experience his or her own fearlessness.

Celebrating its successful 25 years in print, this brilliant introduction to poetry and contemporary art is ideal for readers 4 and up.

Bedtime Inspirational Stories: 50 Amazing Black People Who Changed the World by L. A. Amber

$26.99

This bookhighlights the achievements and stories of 50 notable women and men from the 18th century to today. Some were born slaves, some grew up in poverty, and some had physical or emotional challenges. Some were born many years ago, and some are still with us. The stories in the book include those of political activists, scientists, artists, musicians, inventors, business people, Nobel prize winners, and more.

Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly

$12.75

Based on the New York Times bestselling book and the Academy Award–nominated movie, author Margot Lee Shetterly and illustrator Laura Freeman bring to picturebook readers the incredibly inspiring true story of Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden who helped NASA launch men into space!

This is a gorgeous, lyrical ode to loving who you are, respecting others, and being kind to one another. The concluding message of "We are all here for a purpose. We are more than enough. We just need to believe it," is one that will inspire self-confidence in any young reader.

This book is a high-spirited, engaging salute to the beautiful, raw, assured humanity of black boys and how they see themselves when they approve of their reflections in the mirror. It was named one of the best books of 2017 by NPR, Kirkus Reviews, the Los Angeles Times, the Boston Globe, Chicago Public Library, and more.

As slaves relentlessly toiled in an unjust system in 19th century Louisiana, they all counted the days until Sunday, when at least for half a day they were briefly able to congregate in Congo Square in New Orleans. Here they were free to set up an open market, sing, dance, and play music. They were free to forget their cares, their struggles, and their oppression.

Chosen as a New York Times Best Illustrated Book of 2016, this poetic, nonfiction story about a little-known piece of African American history captures a human's capacity to find hope and joy in difficult circumstances and demonstrates how New Orleans' Congo Square was truly freedom's heart.

Amid the scholars, poets, authors, and artists of the Harlem Renaissance stood an Afro–Puerto Rican named Arturo Schomburg. This law clerk’s life’s passion was to collect books, letters, music, and art from Africa and the African diaspora and bring to light the achievements of people of African descent through the ages. When Schomburg’s collection became so big it began to overflow his house (and his wife threatened to mutiny), he turned to the New York Public Library, where he created and curated a collection that was the cornerstone of a new Negro Division. A century later, his groundbreaking collection, known as the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, has become a beacon to scholars all over the world.

Between the Lines: How Ernie Barnes Went from the Football Field to the Art Gallery by Sandra Neil Wallace

$10.99

Discover the remarkable true story of NFL star Ernie Barnes—a boy who followed his dreams and became one of the most influential artists of his generation—with this beautiful and fascinating nonfiction picture book illustrated by four-time Caldecott Honor recipient Bryan Collier.

In her debut picture book, Misty Copeland tells the story of a young girl--an every girl--whose confidence is fragile and who is questioning her own ability to reach the heights that Misty has reached. Misty encourages this young girl's faith in herself and shows her exactly how, through hard work and dedication, she too can become Firebird.

Do you know you can beWhat you want to beIf you try to beWhat you can be?

This lyrical, empowering poem celebrates black children and seeks to inspire all young people to dream big and achieve their goals. Brought to life by the illustrations of Bryan Collier, this book is ideal for readers 5 to 7 years.

Effa always loved baseball. As a young woman, she would go to Yankee Stadium just to see Babe Ruth’s mighty swing. But she never dreamed she would someday own a baseball team. Or be the first—and only—woman ever inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Noted poet Ntozake Shange recalls her childhood home and the close-knit group of innovators that often gathered there. These men of vision, brought to life in the majestic paintings of artist Kadir Nelson, lived at a time when the color of their skin dictated where they could live, what schools they could attend, and even where they could sit on a bus or in a movie theater.

Yet in the face of this tremendous adversity, these dedicated souls and others like them not only demonstrated the importance of Black culture in America, but also helped usher in a movement that "changed the world."

Hip Hop Speaks to Children: A Celebration of Poetry with a Beat by Nikki Giovanni

$13.45

The poetry is enough. The illustrations are enough. The CD is enough. Together, this book is a treasure of which you cannot get enough. Hip Hop Speaks to Children is a celebration of poetry with a beat and so much more. The book has been edited by renowned poet Nikki Giovanni, who also is featured on the included CD.

This book celebrates the work of young and old. Read over 50 remarkable poems. Listen to more than 30 performances from poets such as Queen Latifah to Gwendolyn Brooks, Langston Hughes to A Tribe Called Quest. And discover both the classic work of Gwendolyn Brooks's wake-up call "We Real Cool" and the lovely work of Kanye West's "Hey Mama," and more.

Melba Doretta Liston loved the sounds of music from as far back as she could remember. As a child, Melba fell in love with a big, shiny trombone and soon taught herself to play the instrument.

By the time she was a teenager, Melba s extraordinary gift for music led her to the world of jazz. She joined a band led by trumpet player Gerald Wilson and toured the country. Overcoming obstacles of race and gender, Melba went on to become a famed trombone player.

A great classroom and bedtime read-aloud, Mae Among the Stars is the perfect book for young readers who have big dreams and even bigger hearts! Inspired by the life of the first African American woman to travel in space, Mae Jemison, this book is ideal for readers 4 to 8 years old.

There is nothing more important to a child than to feel loved, and this gorgeous gathering of poems written by Nikki Giovanni celebrates exactly that. Hand-selected by Newbery honoree Ashley Bryan, he has, with his masterful flourish of color, shape, and movement, added a visual layering that drums the most impartant message of all to young, old, parent, child, grandparent, and friend alike: You are loved. You are loved. You are loved. As a bonus, one page is mirrored, so children reading the book can see exactly who is loved—themselves!

If you haven't heard of Marley Dias, don't worry you will. At age 11, this little powerhouse founded #1000blackgirlbooks to collect and donate books that feature a black girl as the main character. Thanks to her support system, social media, and her own tenacity Dias accomplished her goal and has gone on to achieve much success, including Forbes List. So it's only right that this literary advocate write a book of her own. Marley Dias Gets It Done: And So Can You! shows kids how they can use their strengths to make a positive impact on their community in the technology era. Exploring topics that range from literacy, diversity, social justice, equity and inclusion, Marley proves that your age doesn't limit your mind and possibilities.

You know the Super Soaker. It’s one of top 20 toys of all time. And it was invented entirely by accident. Trying to create a new cooling system for refrigerators and air conditioners, impressive inventor Lonnie Johnson instead created the mechanics for the iconic toy.

A love for rockets, robots, inventions, and a mind for creativity began early in Lonnie Johnson’s life. Growing up in a house full of brothers and sisters, persistence and a passion for problem solving became the cornerstone for a career as an engineer and his work with NASA. But it is his invention of the Super Soaker water gun that has made his most memorable splash with kids and adults.

Celebrate different hair shapes, textures, and styles in this self-affirming picture book! From dreadlocks to blowouts to braids, Princess Hair shines a spotlight on the beauty and diversity of black hair, showing young readers that every kind of hair is princess hair.

Jean-Michel Basquiat and his unique, collage-style paintings rocketed to fame in the 1980s as a cultural phenomenon unlike anything the art world had ever seen. But before that, he was a little boy who saw art everywhere: in poetry books and museums, in games and in the words that we speak, and in the pulsing energy of New York City. This book will introduce young readers to the powerful message that art doesn't always have to be neat or clean--and definitely not inside the lines--to be beautiful.

This jazz-inspired reinvention of The Nutcracker is a worthy tribute to the dreamlike wonder and magic of the Christmas season. Set in New York City during the height of the Harlem Renaissance, one little girl finds her voice as a musician thanks to her enchanting adventures with a magical toy.

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist by Cynthia Levinson

$12.75

Meet the youngest known child to be arrested for a civil rights protest in Birmingham, Alabama, 1963, in this moving picture book that proves you’re never too little to make a difference.

Nine-year-old Audrey Faye Hendricks intended to go places and do things like anybody else. Audrey Faye Hendricks was confident and bold and brave as can be, and hers is the remarkable and inspiring story of one child’s role in the Civil Rights Movement.

Tiny Stitches: The Life of Medical Pioneer Vivien Thomas by Gwendolyn Hooks

$14.15

Vivien Thomas's greatest dream was to attend college to study medicine. But after the stock market crashed in 1929, he lost all his savings. Vivien knew that the Vanderbilt University would never admit him as a student, but he hoped working there would get him closer to his dream.

As Dr. Blalock's research assistant, Vivien developed a procedure that was used for the first successful open-heart surgery on a child. But Vivien's name did not appear on the report.

Hailing from the Tremé neighborhood in New Orleans, Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews got his nickname by wielding a trombone twice as long as he was high. A prodigy, he was leading his own band by age six, and today this Grammy-nominated artist headlines the legendary New Orleans Jazz Fest.

Along with esteemed illustrator Bryan Collier, Andrews has created a lively picture book autobiography about how he followed his dream of becoming a musician, despite the odds, until he reached international stardom. Trombone Shorty is a celebration of the rich cultural history of New Orleans and the power of music.

Did you know that James West invented the microphone in your cell phone? That Fred Jones invented the refrigerated truck that makes supermarkets possible? Or that Dr. Percy Julian synthesized cortisone from soy, easing untold people’s pain? These are just some of the black inventors and innovators scoring big points in this dynamic look at several unsung heroes who shared a desire to improve people’s lives.

Offering profiles with fast facts on flaps and framed by a funny contemporary story featuring two feisty twins, here is a nod to the minds behind the gamma electric cell and the ice-cream scoop, improvements to traffic lights, open-heart surgery, and more — inventors whose ingenuity and perseverance against great odds made our world safer, better, and brighter.

When the Beat Was Born: DJ Kool Herc and the Creation of Hip Hop by Laban Carrick Hill

$10.98

Before there was hip hop, there was DJ Kool Herc.

From his childhood in Jamaica to his youth in the Bronx, Laban Carrick Hill's book tells how Kool Herc came to be a DJ, how kids in gangs stopped fighting in order to breakdance, and how the music he invented went on to define a culture and transform the world.

Presented as a thoughtful, poetic exchange between two characters -- who don't realize they are thinking and asking the very same questions -- this beautiful celebration of our humanity and diversity invites readers of all ages to imagine a world where there is no you or me, only we.

If the first step toward healing the world is to build bridges of empathy and celebrate rather than discriminate, Why Am I Me? helps foster a much-needed sense of connection, compassion, and love.

Meet 52 icons of color from the past and present in this celebration of inspirational achievement - from figureheads, leaders and pioneers such as Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela and Rosa Parks, to cultural trailblazers and sporting heroes, including Stevie Wonder, Oprah Winfrey and Serena Williams. Strong, courageous, talented and diverse, these extraordinary men and women's achievements will inspire a new generation to chase their dream … whatever it may be.

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Black History Month is an opportunity to shed light on our African American heroes, but unfortunately many heroes and stories get forgotten. This list explores the historical figures and cultural nuances that often don't make the textbooks but will enrich your children's lives just as much. With books written by legends like Maya Angelou and newcomers like Vashti Harrison, there's enough variety on this list to keep you engaged during Black History Month and all year.